Legislative Policy

The course will introduce students to the role, processes, and political context of the Legislative Branch in state government. It will include the basic formal and informal processes by which legislation is considered, the types of actions available to the Legislature, the role of federal and state constitutions in shaping the role of the Legislature, the intergovernmental political context of the Legislature (federal, state, tribal, local, international governments), the political accountability of the Legislature, the role of elections in shaping the legislative process, the methods for tracking and researching legislation, how to read legislative documents, and the role of citizens in shaping and influencing the legislative process. Many experienced practitioners will be invited to class.

Major assignments: 1) Read and consider handouts and assigned reading (no text book); track and report on a piece of legislation actively considered, 2) attend three legislative hearings or Floor Sessions during the 2018 Legislative Session.

For questions or information, contact Karen Fraser at 360-250-6261 (call or text).

No emails please.

Credits per quarter

Online learning:

Enhanced Online Learning - This offering requires access to web-based tools, but use of these tools does not displace any face-to-face instruction.

Class Standing: GraduateClass Size: 15

Scheduled for: Evening and Weekend

Advertised schedule:

Feb 23-25, 5-9p Fri, 9a-5p Sat/Sun

Located in: Olympia

How to Register

Copy the course reference number (CRN) for your class standing and desired number of credits, below.